Trust responds to Social Mobility Commission’s 'Time for Change' report

Dame Kelly Holmes Trust has responded to The Social Mobility Commission’s new report 'Time for change: an assessment of government policies on social mobility 1997-2017.'

Ben Hilton, Director of Programmes at Dame Kelly Holmes Trust, said: "We welcome today's report from The Social Mobility Commission, which outlines the importance of character development to enhance social mobility.

"The report clearly acknowledges that despite some recognition by government of the need to develop soft skills over the past 20 years, exam results have been prioritised at their expense. This has led to young people leaving the education system without the confidence, motivation, determination, focus and resilience needed to lead positive lives – an issue which is proven to impact considerably greater on disadvantaged groups.

"We support the recommendations made, including the introduction of an accountability framework for schools. This should ensure that young people facing disadvantage are leaving with the character traits and soft skills needed to prosper in the labour market and reach positive destinations.

"Dame Kelly Holmes Trust remains committed to continue leading a movement of organisations and policy makers across the youth and education sectors to further promote the importance of character development. The ability to unlock these traits in young people will be crucial to ensure future generations reach their full potential and opportunities for social mobility increase over the next 20 years."